The Babonneau constituency in Saint Lucia is set to elect a new parliamentary representative on December 1, following the formal nomination filings of John Paul Estephane from the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP) and Titus Preville from the United Workers Party (UWP) on Friday. The nomination process took place at the Babonneau Secondary School, where both candidates were accompanied by enthusiastic supporters marching from their respective constituency offices. Both Estephane and Preville expressed unwavering confidence in securing victory in the upcoming general election. Estephane, who was confirmed as the SLP candidate in late August, replacing outgoing MP Virginia Albert-Poyotte, emphasized his deep-rooted connection to the community. ‘I have been with the people. I am a community man, a humble person. A lot of people know me,’ he stated, attributing his strong support to the SLP administration’s efforts and the popularity of Prime Minister Philip J. Pierre. Preville, greeted by jubilant UWP supporters, highlighted his party’s ambitious proposals, including youth-focused mortgage programs, $25,000 business grants, and measures to reduce the cost of food and fuel. He also criticized the current government for its governance failures, particularly the absence of Citizenship by Investment (CIP) reports. Preville promised transformative reforms if the UWP regains power, vowing to address rising living costs and implement universal health insurance. ‘We are on the cusp of a revolutionary change in Saint Lucia,’ he declared.
分类： politics
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CARICOM about to “Implode”? Prime Ministers Clash
The Caribbean Community (CARICOM) is on the brink of internal conflict as tensions escalate between Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar and St Vincent and the Grenadines’ Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves. Persad-Bissessar has issued a stark warning, suggesting that CARICOM’s collapse is imminent. This follows accusations by Gonsalves that financiers linked to Trinidad’s ruling United National Congress (UNC) are supporting his political opponents ahead of St Vincent’s upcoming November 27 election. Gonsalves claimed that UNC-affiliated supporters are already in his country, allegedly driven by economic motives, given Trinidad’s struggling economy compared to St Vincent’s rapid growth. Persad-Bissessar vehemently denied these allegations, countering with questions about how members of Gonsalves’ family acquired three luxury apartments in Trinidad. She labeled his accusations as ironic, given the ongoing investigation into the matter. Persad-Bissessar also challenged Gonsalves to provide evidence or cease misleading his citizens. She further highlighted that some regional leaders have been involved in elections beyond their borders. Despite the turmoil, Persad-Bissessar recently reaffirmed Trinidad and Tobago’s commitment to CARICOM, even as her government seeks stronger ties with non-regional nations.
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Chastanet Puts Pierre on Notice: ‘The people are ready for change’
Allen Chastanet, Political Leader of the United Workers Party (UWP) and candidate for Micoud South, has expressed confidence in his party’s readiness for the upcoming general election in Saint Lucia. After finalizing his candidacy on Nomination Day, Chastanet emphasized that the people of Saint Lucia are eager for change, signaling a shift in momentum. He believes the UWP is well-positioned to regain voter trust and steer the nation toward a new direction. Chastanet, one of only two UWP candidates to secure victory in the 2021 elections, asserted that the current administration has failed to deliver on its promises, warning that conditions could deteriorate further. He noted an encouraging surge of support in the lead-up to the December 1 election, with previously silent voters now actively engaging in the campaign. Chastanet also criticized the Labour Party’s governance style, accusing them of deepening societal divisions and blurring the lines between party and state. He claimed that state resources are being weaponized for political gain, citing the politicization of public ceremonies as evidence. Addressing his constituents in Micoud South, Chastanet highlighted his track record as former Prime Minister, pledging to prioritize job creation, infrastructure development, new tourism projects, and the construction of a farmers’ market in Anse Ger. The UWP is set to unveil its election manifesto at a rally in La Caye, Dennery, on November 23. Chastanet concluded with a bold statement, declaring that the people of Saint Lucia have had enough and are ready for a transformative change.
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Pierre Thanks Castries East Backers as He Seeks to Break Election Trend
Philip J. Pierre, leader of the ruling Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), shifted the focus of nomination day celebrations to his loyal supporters rather than his own political ambitions. Pierre, who has held the Castries East parliamentary seat since 1997, is determined to defy the trend that has seen every prime minister since 2006 fail to secure consecutive terms. The last leader to achieve this feat was Kenny Anthony in 2001. Pierre, affectionately known as the ‘Six-Star General’ by his party, expressed deep gratitude for the unwavering support of his constituents, emphasizing that their faith in him over the decades has been both humbling and motivating. He recounted how a woman who signed his nomination papers in 1992 remains a steadfast supporter, symbolizing the enduring bond he shares with his community. Pierre also addressed the challenges faced by his supporters, who often face ridicule and questions about their loyalty. He highlighted his ongoing efforts to develop infrastructure in his constituency, including sports venues and a craft market, while stressing that broader national progress under his leadership benefits Castries East as well. Ahead of the SLP’s election manifesto release, Pierre expressed confidence in his administration’s record, citing documented achievements over the past four and a half years as proof of their commitment to delivering on promises.
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Three-Way Showdown in Castries Central as Nominations Close
The nomination process for the highly anticipated Castries Central constituency concluded this morning at the CSA Centre in Sans Souci, marking the official entry of three candidates into the upcoming general election. The contenders include Rosh Clarke of the United Workers Party (UWP), Richard Frederick of the Saint Lucia Labour Party (SLP), and independent candidate Stanley Felix. The event was marked by spirited displays of support and competing visions for the constituency’s future. Richard Frederick, the first to arrive, emphasized his dedication to eradicating poverty and improving the lives of constituents. ‘I’ve made significant sacrifices to ensure we address poverty,’ he told reporters, adding that his commitment has earned him widespread support. One of his supporters praised Frederick’s track record, citing his efforts to assist the needy and empower youth in the community. Shortly after Frederick’s departure, Stanley Felix arrived, coinciding with the UWP team’s entrance, creating a lively atmosphere outside the nomination center. Felix expressed confidence in his candidacy, stating, ‘My chances are as good as any of the candidates.’ He outlined plans to revitalize infrastructure, particularly in neglected neighboring communities, emphasizing the need for improved sidewalks and transportation. Rosh Clarke, the UWP candidate, presented a comprehensive vision centered on four key pillars: alleviating traffic congestion, expanding sporting opportunities, enhancing healthcare with a 24-hour clinic, and improving housing conditions. Despite the competitive atmosphere, moments of unity were observed as Clarke and Felix warmly greeted supporters of their opponents outside the venue.
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Persad-Bissessar warns of CARICOM implosion amid row with Gonsalves
Trinidad and Tobago’s Prime Minister Kamla Persad-Bissessar has issued a stark warning about the future of the Caribbean Community (CARICOM), stating that the regional bloc risks imploding if leaders continue to interfere in the domestic affairs of member states. Her comments came in response to allegations made by St Vincent and the Grenadines Prime Minister Ralph Gonsalves, who accused financiers of Trinidad’s ruling United National Congress (UNC) of funding the opposition New Democratic Party (NDP) ahead of the November 27 general elections in Kingstown. Gonsalves claimed that UNC operatives were actively involved in St Vincent, motivated by access to lands and economic opportunities. Persad-Bissessar vehemently denied the allegations, calling them baseless and challenging Gonsalves to provide evidence or cease what she described as ‘gaslighting’ his citizens. She also highlighted ongoing investigations into how members of Gonsalves’ family acquired luxury apartments in Trinidad, questioning the legality of the transactions. The controversy has exacerbated tensions between the two nations, with Trinidad’s Housing Minister Anil Roberts suggesting the matter be referred to the police. Gonsalves defended his family, asserting that they followed proper procedures and received no special treatment. Persad-Bissessar, however, broadened her critique, emphasizing that CARICOM’s credibility is at stake if leaders persist in meddling in each other’s politics. She stressed that the choice of leadership in any member state should be left to its people, warning that continued interference could lead to the bloc’s collapse.
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UWP to host 10th town hall meeting in Roseau Central
The United Workers Party (UWP) is set to hold its 10th Town Hall Meeting today in Roseau Central, Dominica. The event will commence at 5:00 p.m. at the Public Service Union (PSU) Building on Valley Road. Glenroy “Soso” Cuffy, the Public Relations Officer of the UWP, emphasized the importance of the meeting during a recent Q-95 Radio broadcast, urging citizens to attend in large numbers. He highlighted that the gathering would serve as a platform for the party to present its development strategies for Dominica. Cuffy stressed the need for public participation, stating, “You need to turn out in large numbers to hear some of the things we have planned for Dominica and to hear how it is we are going to make sure things are happening.” He also addressed criticisms of the party’s inactivity, asserting that the UWP has already conducted nine similar meetings nationwide, engaging directly with citizens. The Roseau Central meeting is expected to be a significant event, with Cuffy expressing confidence in a strong turnout. Additionally, Cuffy encouraged the public to participate in the ongoing Voter Confirmation Process, emphasizing the importance of ensuring citizens’ right to vote. He remarked, “We need to support the movement of unity and we need to move forward expeditiously to get everybody confirmed and to have the government out.” Cuffy underscored the necessity of decisive action if elections are called, stating that Dominicans deserve a trustworthy government. He elaborated on the party’s vision, saying, “It is important that every Dominican should be impacted by the policies of a government going forward and to benefit from the country. This is why we talked about shared prosperity, we talked about the 10-pillar plan.” The Roseau Central Town Hall Meeting is part of the UWP’s broader effort to communicate its policies and vision to the nation.
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Uruguay joins Trans-Pacific Partnership
Uruguay has successfully secured membership in the Comprehensive and Progressive Agreement for Trans-Pacific Partnership (CPTPP), following approval from key member nations including Australia, Brunei, Canada, Chile, Japan, Malaysia, Mexico, New Zealand, Peru, Singapore, the United Kingdom, and Vietnam. The announcement was made by Uruguay’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs on its official website. This milestone marks the culmination of efforts initiated under the leadership of former President Luis Lacalle Pou and carried forward by the current administration of President Yamandu Orsi. Foreign Minister Mario Lubetkin emphasized the significance of this achievement, stating, ‘The results are clear: work that transcends governments, in favor of Uruguay’s interests. We are opening opportunities.’ Lubetkin further highlighted that the CPTPP accounted for an average of nine percent of Uruguay’s total merchandise exports between 2022 and 2024, underscoring the economic importance of this partnership. Uruguay’s accession to the CPTPP is expected to enhance its trade relations and provide new avenues for economic growth.
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China urges Japan to respect political basis of bilateral ties
Chinese Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Mao Ning has called on Japan to adhere to the four political documents established between the two nations, emphasizing the need for Tokyo to ‘immediately retract its erroneous comments and demonstrate its commitments to China through concrete actions.’ This statement comes amid growing concerns over Japan’s recent military policy shifts. Mao highlighted that Japan has consistently increased its defense budget for 13 consecutive years and revised its arms export policy, permitting the sale of lethal weapons like ‘Patriot’ missiles to the United States for the first time. Additionally, Tokyo is reportedly considering altering its long-standing principle of ‘not producing, possessing, or transporting nuclear weapons,’ potentially paving the way for nuclear weapon-sharing agreements. Mao reiterated that the post-war international order, rooted in documents such as the Cairo Declaration, the Potsdam Declaration, and Japan’s Act of Surrender, mandates the country’s complete demilitarization. She warned that any attempt by Japan to revert to militarism, abandon its peaceful development pledge, or disrupt the post-war order would face staunch opposition from the Chinese people and the international community, ultimately leading to failure. The remarks were made in response to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s recent assertion in the Diet that a Chinese attack on Taiwan would constitute an ‘existential crisis’ for Japan, potentially triggering the mobilization of its Self-Defense Forces and intervention in the conflict.
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Venezuela’s Nobel Peace Prize Winner Threatened With Arrest
In an unprecedented turn of events, María Corina Machado, Venezuela’s 2025 Nobel Peace Prize laureate, has been threatened with arrest by her own government. The Venezuelan authorities have declared that Machado will be considered a “fugitive” if she attempts to leave the country to receive her award in Oslo, Norway, on December 10. Tarik William Saab, a prominent Venezuelan politician and lawyer, has accused Machado of charges including “conspiracy, incitement of hatred, and terrorism.”